KAM, Agrochemicals Association partner to manage hazardous waste

Wednesday, 7th September 2022, Nairobi: Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) and Agrochemical Association of Kenya (AAK) have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support the establishment of the Kenya Hazardous Waste Producer Responsible Organization (KEHAPRO) Initiative. This is in line with the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations, 2021. 

Speaking during the MoU signing ceremony, KAM Ag CEO Tobias Alando observed that the MoU has come at an opportune time since Kenya is still experiencing challenges in proper waste management. “The low uptake of responsible waste management principles is attributed to the lack of adequate policies to effectively coordinate national and county waste management functions and low levels of consumer awareness.” 

Mr Alando reiterated the Association’s commitment to promoting a circular economy among local manufacturers, saying, “Through our partnership with AAK, we shall support the establishment of Hazardous Products Packaging PRO, facilitate access to information and conduct advocacy and/or research affecting manufacturers in the hazardous products packaging waste management.” 

AAK Chairman, Patrick Amuyunzu noted that the MoU is a key step towards driving the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), “As we transition to sustainable production, it is critical that we also add value to the manufacturing sector. Part of our commitment to sustainability is creating awareness on the importance of responsible management of hazardous waste.” 

The MoU is one of the commitments made by KAM in the Kenya Plastic Action Plan, launched in 2019. It is a private sector-led Policy and Action Plan that seeks to enable a circular economy for the environmentally sustainable use and recycling of plastics in Kenya.